Following
weight reduction surgery, or any substantial amount of
weight loss, the skin and tissues often lack elasticity
and cannot conform to the reduced body size. As a
result, skin that has been severely stretched now is
unsupported:

Upper arms may sag and appear loose and full

Breasts may flatten and hang with nipples pointed
downward

Abdominal area may extend around the sides and
into the lower back area, resulting in an apron-like
overhang

Buttocks, groin and thighs can sag and cause
hanging pockets of skin

Surgical
body contouring following major weight loss improves the
shape and tone of your underlying tissue that supports
fat and skin, and removes excess sagging fat and skin.

The
result is a more normal appearance to the body, with
smoother contours. This is, in essence, the final phase
of your total weight loss experience.

Is it
right for me?

Before
you decide to undergo body contouring following major
weight loss, your weight loss must be stabilized.

If you continue to lose weight, sagging pockets
will redevelop.

If you rapidly regain the weight, you will
traumatically stress your already weakened and thinned
skin, causing further stress to the skin, visible
stretch marks and wide scars.

If you
had weight reduction surgery, your plastic surgeon will
work closely with your physician to determine when it is
appropriate for you to begin body contouring.

Good
candidates for body contouring are:

Adults of any age whose weight loss has stabilized

Healthy individuals who do not have medical
conditions that can impair healing or increase risk of
surgery

Non-smokers

Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic
goals for what body contouring can accomplish

Individuals committed to leading a healthy
lifestyle including proper nutrition and fitness